Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has voted to join the Council of Sanctuary network, a move councillors say will strengthen efforts to support people fleeing war and persecution.
The decision, approved on Monday evening, follows weeks of debate, strong opposition from some political quarters, and a protest in Newry city centre earlier this month which saw hundreds gather to demonstrate in opposition of the proposal.
Sinn Féin Councillor Declan Murphy, who brought the motion forward, said tonight’s vote sent a “clear message” that the district stood with those in need.
“Joining this network sends a clear message that our district stands with those in need. We won’t allow fear or division to define our future,” he said.
“This move recognises the work already being done locally and helps ensure people with the right to remain are treated with dignity and can access vital services. Our communities are built on values of solidarity, equality and respect. These are the values that shape a welcoming, inclusive district.”
The SDLP also welcomed the outcome, saying it reaffirmed the council’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness.
A spokesperson said: “Newry, Mourne and Down is home to people from many different walks of life and dozens of nationalities. These are people who are not only our neighbours and friends, but who work in our schools, staff our GP surgeries, care for our loved ones, and help keep our local hospital open.
“This move to become a Council of Sanctuary is not about immigration powers, which are solely the responsibility of the UK Home Office, nor is it about encouraging people to come to the district. What it is about is making sure that those who have been legally placed here, including a very small number of people seeking asylum, are treated with fairness and compassion, and are supported to participate fully in community life.”
The party added that misinformation about the proposal – including claims that asylum seekers were being housed in “luxury accommodation” – was “false, dangerous and divisive”.
As of March this year, there were just 63 people receiving asylum support across the entire district.
The vote comes after weeks of heightened tensions in the district, with a rally in Marcus Square in Newry drawing both protesters and counter-protesters.
Some opponents of the proposal, including DUP and independent councillors, warned that joining the scheme could encourage “illegal immigration” and change the character of the area.
However, City of Sanctuary UK has consistently denied such claims, stressing that local authorities have no control over immigration policy or numbers placed in their districts.
Instead, the recognition is intended to improve integration and ensure people already living in the community are treated with dignity and respect.
Despite the protests, Monday’s decision means Newry, Mourne and Down will now become part of the Council of Sanctuary network – joining a growing number of towns and cities across the UK and Ireland taking part in the initiative.
